Explanatory note

This Supplementary Order Paper extends the proposed extension for the period of paid parental leave payments from 26 weeks to 40 weeks. The ability for parents to choose to care for newborn babies is an essential part of supporting families to develop nurturing relationships. Extending paid parental leave from the current entitlement of 14 weeks to 40 weeks would support families and also create jobs across the economy as employers engage staff to replace those on paid parental leave. As the majority of paid parental leave is uplifted by women, the amendment has the added benefit of creating jobs in areas of the economy where women work, while supporting families and the well-being of children.